CVE-2004-2010 in phpShop
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in index.php in phpShop 0.7.1 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code by modifying the base_dir parameter to reference a URL on a remote web server that contains phpshop.cfg.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-2010 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in phpShop version 0.7.1 and earlier systems. This issue stems from inadequate input validation within the index.php script where the base_dir parameter is not properly sanitized before being used in file inclusion operations. The vulnerability classifies under CWE-98 as improper neutralization of special elements used in an alternate execution path of the code, specifically manifesting as a remote code execution vector through file inclusion mechanisms.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker manipulates the base_dir parameter to point to a remote web server hosting a malicious phpshop.cfg file. When the vulnerable application processes this parameter, it attempts to include the specified file, thereby executing any PHP code contained within the remote file. This creates a pathway for attackers to inject and execute arbitrary PHP commands on the target server, effectively compromising the entire application environment. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation practices and highlights the dangers of directly incorporating user-supplied data into file inclusion operations without proper sanitization.
Operationally, this vulnerability poses severe risks to organizations using affected phpShop installations. Attackers can leverage this weakness to gain full control over the web server hosting the application, potentially leading to data breaches, service disruption, and complete system compromise. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require local access or authentication to exploit the vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous. This type of vulnerability falls under ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in remote services and T1059 for executing malicious code through command injection.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve immediate patching of the affected phpShop versions to the latest available releases that address the input validation issues. Administrators should also implement proper input sanitization measures, including parameter validation and the use of allowlists for file inclusion operations. Additional protective measures include disabling remote file inclusion capabilities in PHP configurations, implementing web application firewalls, and conducting regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation in preventing remote code execution attacks that can lead to complete system compromise.